Childs-Adwinkle Mine (Childs and Altwilkle Mine; Childs-Aldwinkle Mine)
Copper Creek (Copper Creek Canyon), Bunker Hill District (Copper Creek District), Pinal County, Arizona, USA
Key Information
Do not enter mining areas without proper authorization.
The Childs-Adwinkle Mine is located near Mammoth, Pinal County, Arizona, in the Sonoran Desert, close to the Galiuro Mountains.
It produces a variety of minerals, including rare corkite, alongside common ones like copper and molybdenum.
The mine features a breccia pipe within granodiorite, formed by hydrothermal activity, interesting for geological enthusiasts.
Mining started in 1883, with significant activity in the 1930s; it seems likely the mine is now abandoned.
Local culture includes mining history, with events like the Pinal County Fair; the area has a desert climate with hot summers and mild winters.
Location and Geography
The Childs-Adwinkle Mine sits in Copper Creek, part of the Bunker Hill District in Pinal County, Arizona, USA, about 15 km from the small town of Mammoth. Pinal County is in central Arizona, south of Phoenix and north of Tucson, known for its desert landscapes and mountainous regions like the Galiuro Mountains. Nearby settlements include San Manuel (22 km away) and Oracle (31 km away), offering a glimpse into the area's rural charm and mining heritage.
Minerals and Geology
This mine is a treasure trove for mineral enthusiasts, producing molybdenum, copper, silver, gold, lead, zinc, arsenic, antimony, and bismuth. Notably, it contains corkite, a rare lead iron sulfate mineral, which is a highlight for collectors. Geologically, it's a breccia pipe within Copper Creek granodiorite, an igneous rock, with minerals formed through hydrothermal activity, making it a fascinating study for those interested in how such deposits form.
Mining History
Discovered in 1883 by Aldwinkle and backed by Childs, the mine saw significant production from 1933 to 1938, yielding substantial amounts of molybdenite, copper, silver, and gold. Given the lack of recent activity, research suggests the mine is likely abandoned today, adding to its historical allure for those exploring Arizona's mining past.
Local Culture and Climate
The area around Mammoth has deep roots in mining, reflected in community events like the Pinal County Fair, which celebrates local heritage. The climate is typical of the Sonoran Desert, with hot summers and mild winters, and low rainfall, supporting a unique ecology of cacti and desert shrubs, enhancing the region's appeal for outdoor enthusiasts.